a moving performance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a moving performance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a performance, such as a play, concert, or speech, that evokes strong emotions in the audience. Example: "The actor delivered a moving performance that left the audience in tears."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

34 human-written examples

Neeson gives a moving performance as grieving father and widower Daniel in this classic Christmas romcom.

The Guardian - Film

The Great Man Votes (1939) was Kanin's first critical success, thanks largely to a moving performance by John Barrymore.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In 97 minutes, Paulson gives a moving performance opposite Danny Burstein, as two complicated souls who are destined to fall in love, no matter the cost.

The New York Times

Yet the 31-year-old Ms. Miller, at her peak here, still manages to give a moving performance in her role as a slouchy, earthy beauty.

The New York Times

Ms. Cardinale gives a moving performance as the delusional mother who has pinned all her hopes and dreams on the return of João, who intends to swindle her.

The New York Times - Arts

Dina Gulnara Mitzanova offered a moving performance as Maurya, and Katharine Gunnink and Anne Marie Schubert sang expressively as Cathleen and Nora, the two daughters.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

26 human-written examples

Entertainment Weekly Michael Slezak criticized the "Bust A Move" performance, writing that Morrison gave a "pale imitation" of the Young M.C. original.

Wikipedia

In the central role of a retired conservative judge in Buffalo, the veteran actor Michael Cristofer gives the play an absorbing center, delivering a prickly, moving performance as a man whose attempt to make amends for a lifetime of spiritual flaws only draws him deeper into conflict with his troubled children.

The New York Times

There is also a deeply moving performance by David Morrissey — a near ringer for Liam Neeson — as Colonel Brandon, Marianne's patient suitor.

The New Yorker

A dreamy collagist score by RZA and a witty, moving performance by Mr. Whitaker help this film about race relations in a culture unable to think clearly about the subject.

The New York Times

"I don't think Jesus interested," A J dryly responds.As Pharus, Mr. Pope gives a magnetic, moving performance that provides strong emotional ballast.Mr.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a moving performance" to describe performances that evoke strong emotions, such as sadness, empathy, or inspiration. It is suitable for describing acting, musical performances, or speeches.

Common error

Avoid using "a moving performance" to describe everyday actions or events that lack significant emotional depth. Reserve it for situations where the emotional impact is genuinely profound.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a moving performance" functions as a descriptive noun phrase. According to Ludwig AI, it is used to characterize a performance—whether theatrical, musical, or oratorical—that evokes strong emotions in its audience. Examples provided by Ludwig showcase its use in contexts ranging from film reviews to music critiques, emphasizing the performance's emotional impact.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Science

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a moving performance" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe performances that evoke strong emotions. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability and provides numerous examples from reputable sources, predominantly in news and media. When employing this phrase, consider the depth and sincerity of the emotional impact you wish to convey, avoiding its overuse in trivial contexts. Alternatives such as "an emotional performance" or "a poignant performance" may offer more specific nuances. The phrase maintains a neutral register and can be effectively used in both formal and informal writing, especially when aiming to capture the profound effect a performance has on its audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an emotional performance

Replaces "moving" with a more direct synonym focusing on the emotional impact.

a touching performance

Emphasizes the ability of the performance to evoke tenderness.

a poignant performance

Highlights the performance's ability to evoke sadness or regret.

a stirring performance

Focuses on the performance's capacity to arouse strong feelings.

an impactful performance

Shifts the focus to the significant effect the performance has on the audience.

a powerful performance

Highlights the strength and intensity of the performance.

a deeply felt performance

Emphasizes the authenticity and sincerity of the performance.

a resonant performance

Highlights the lasting impression and deep connection the performance creates.

a memorable performance

Focuses on the lasting quality and impact of the performance on the audience's memory.

a captivating performance

Emphasizes the ability of the performance to hold the audience's attention.

FAQs

How can I use "a moving performance" in a sentence?

You can use "a moving performance" to describe any performance that evokes strong emotions. For example, "The actor gave "a moving performance" as the grieving father" or "The choir's rendition of the song was "a moving performance" that brought tears to many eyes".

What are some alternatives to "a moving performance"?

Alternatives to "a moving performance" include "an emotional performance", "a touching performance", or "a poignant performance". The best choice depends on the specific emotion you want to emphasize.

Is it appropriate to use "a moving performance" in formal writing?

Yes, "a moving performance" is appropriate for formal writing. It is a clear and concise way to describe a performance that evokes strong emotions and is suitable for use in reviews, reports, and other formal contexts.

What distinguishes "a moving performance" from simply "a good performance"?

"A good performance" indicates general competence or skill, while ""a moving performance"" specifically highlights the performance's capacity to evoke strong emotional responses in the audience, indicating a deeper connection and impact.